Chief, mayor apologize for officers' actions

SOUTH BEND -- Police Chief Thomas Fautz and Mayor Stephen Luecke on Wednesday apologized to the community for the recent arrests of three off-duty officers on alcohol-related charges, saying the department is working to prevent future incidents. Before an afternoon meeting with The Tribune's editorial board, Fautz said the arrests tarnish the reputation of a department that strives for professionalism and is made up of dedicated officers who take pride in serving the city. "I personally apologize for these incidents," Fautz said. "We don't condone this activity, and we'll do everything in our power to try to ensure that this type of thing doesn't happen again." Luecke said the city "has taken appropriate steps both in terms of disciplinary action but also in getting (officers) assistance." Fautz touted the department's employee assistance program as a way for officers to obtain information and counseling about alcohol abuse. The chief said the department has not implemented any new procedures or programs in the wake of the recent arrests. Fautz said he remains proud of his department. "I'm not going to hang my head," he said, but rather will work to get ahead of the issue of alcohol abuse among officers. The chief also said he and members of the department are bothered when the community generalizes about all officers based on the actions of a few. "It's just unfortunate that we all get painted with the same brush," Fautz said. Two officers have pleaded guilty to operating while intoxicated charges from December arrests. A third officer faces a March 20 court date for two OWI (operating while intoxicated) charges after he was arrested Feb. 20 on the city's south side. Staff writer Patrick M. O'Connell: poconnell@sbtinfo.com (574) 235-6357